Senior Layout Designer / Urban Designer

Overview

A well-established architectural practice in Bristol is seeking an experienced layout designer / urban designer to join its team. The role focuses on the design and development of residential layouts for housing schemes ranging from small sites to large-scale masterplans. This position is ideal for a skilled designer with a solid understanding of UK housing design standards, a practical approach to site layout, and strong AutoCAD proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Create high-quality residential layout designs using AutoCAD, from concept stage through to planning submission.
• Develop site masterplans that balance design quality, planning policy compliance, technical requirements, and commercial viability.
• Work closely with architects, planners, and consultants to deliver integrated and well-considered housing layouts.
• Ensure designs meet relevant local authority planning policies, national guidance (e.g. Building for a Healthy Life), and highways standards (e.g. Manual for Streets).
• Produce supporting materials including illustrative site plans, feasibility studies, and Design & Access Statement inputs.
• Attend client and consultant meetings, site visits, and design workshops as needed.
• Respond to design feedback from planning officers, clients, and project stakeholders.

Candidate Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years’ experience working on residential layout design within an architectural or urban design practice.
• Proven proficiency in AutoCAD, with the ability to produce accurate and well-presented layout drawings.
• A strong understanding of UK planning policies, housing typologies, and site planning principles.
• Good knowledge of technical design standards related to residential development (e.g. space standards, parking provision, highways design).
• Excellent visual and written communication skills, with the ability to present designs clearly and concisely.
• Comfortable working independently on layout proposals, as well as collaborating within a multidisciplinary team.
• A practical, solution-focused mindset with a commitment to high-quality design outcomes.

Desirable Skills

• Degree or qualification in architecture, urban design, or a related field.
• Experience working on outline and detailed planning applications.
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (especially InDesign and Photoshop) and SketchUp.
• Understanding of sustainable design, placemaking, and community-led housing design.
• Knowledge of Revit or GIS would be beneficial but not essential.

What the Practice Offers

• Competitive salary based on experience and skills.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• A supportive and collaborative studio culture.
• Opportunities to contribute to a range of innovative and high-profile residential projects.
• Career development support and progression opportunities.